Scott Fuller, a former lobstering and scallop fisherman, was born in Maine. He embarked on his fishing career in 1983 and continued until 1987. Growing up in a coastal community, Scott developed an affinity for the sea and its unpredictable nature. His choice to become a fisherman was fueled by a desire to embrace the challenges and rewards that came with the occupation. Although not from a family with a fishing background, Scott was introduced to the trade through an in-law who was already involved in the industry. Scott primarily fished for lobsters and scallops, operating in the waters around Bar Harbor and Frenchman's Bay. As a stern man, he worked at the back of the boat, assisting the skipper with various tasks. Scott Fuller His role required him to be versatile, as he had to acquire knowledge of different aspects of fishing and occasionally take control of the boat. Scott enjoyed the camaraderie and excitement of working in a team, facing thrilling situations that demanded skill and luck for success and survival.

Scope and Content Note
Throughout his four-year fishing career, Scott experienced the unpredictability of the industry firsthand. The income from fishing fluctuated drastically, with no way to predict financial inflow. There were periods of abundance, during which Scott envisioned a prosperous future, only to be followed by extended periods of scarcity. Despite the challenges, Scott found fulfillment in his work, even in the face of financial difficulties. However, as he approached his mid-thirties, he realized the need to settle down and secure a more stable source of income. Scott's fishing expeditions often took place in harsh weather conditions, where he and his partner would venture out when most others would not dare. Their determination to catch fish pushed them to go out even in treacherous situations, sometimes without essential equipment like radios and radars. Scott reminisced about instances when concerned individuals pleaded for their return, fearing for their safety. In the course of the interview, Scott also provides insights into the fishing techniques employed in lobstering and scalloping. He explains that bait was used for lobsters, with the type of bait depending on the local habitat and water conditions. Scallop fishing involved dragging nets across the ocean floor, an approach that yielded high productivity but caused significant environmental damage. Scott compares it to bulldozing the seabed and highlighted the negative impact on other marine life. Scott's fishing experiences were not limited to the catch itself; he also encountered unexpected wildlife during his time at sea. After hurricanes, tropical fish swept away by tidal surges would sometimes appear among their catches, a testament to the powerful forces of nature. Scott's account of encountering these colorful and exotic fish added an element of wonder to his fishing narrative. Scott touches upon the rivalry among fishermen and the importance of secrecy regarding productive fishing locations. He shares a memorable anecdote about a fishing bed they discovered, which attracted numerous other fishermen once its existence became known. The ensuing competition resulted in the rapid depletion of the scallops, illustrating the cutthroat nature of the industry. While fishing had its challenges and risks, Scott cherished the experience of venturing beyond the confines of civilization and the safety it provided. He describes the sensation of leaving land behind and feeling vulnerable to the forces of the sea, considering it a profound and spiritual experience. Scott's passion for fishing and his love for the ocean became evident throughout the interview, reflecting his deep connection to the maritime world.